Ford will launch an ultra-low CO2 version of the Focus, returning more than 65mpg and emitting just 115g/km of CO2, at next week’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

Due on sale early next year, the Focus ECOnetic will be in the lowest benefit-in-kind tax band for company car drivers, costing just £35 a year in VED rates and avoiding the London congestion charge if proposed changes to the system gain approval.

To bring down emissions, Ford has taken a standard 1.6 TDCi 110bhp diesel Focus and altered the aerodynamics.

This involves lowering the car and fitting a bodykit to reduce drag. Other modifications include special 15-inch wheels with low rolling resistance tyres and a special type of transmission oil which is claimed to boost engine efficiency.

Ford will expand the ECOnetic banner across its other models and will announce further details next week.

The ECOnetic Focus will join Ford’s FlexiFuel models which run on E85 bioethanol and also go on sale early next year.

John Fleming, Ford of Europe president and CEO, said: “Although all of our current European models are already highly competitive in terms of CO2, we know that more and more car buyers seek the lowest possible emissions as a key ‘why-buy?’.

“By launching specific models, with dedicated Ford ECOnetic badging to indicate ultra-low CO2 results, we will give a clear alternative to customers who prioritise low emissions performance.”